Ανακοινωθέντα

I am delighted to be joining you in commemorating a true milestone for the American University of Beirut–Mediterraneo (AUB), the inauguration of this exceptional new campus, coinciding with the beginning of a new academic year.

This momentous occasion holds great significance, both for this esteemed institution but also for Cyprus and the broader Eastern Mediterranean region. It is a manifestation of the historically excellent relations between our countries, testament to the bolstering regional cooperation in the field of education. At this very challenging time for our region of conflict, we are standing at the European Union (EU)’s anchor and lighthouse in the eastern Mediterranean and sending a very strong message of cooperation.

The American University of Beirut, with a rich legacy spanning over 158 years, has not only left its mark on the world stage; it has also had a decisive impact on the trajectory of the lives of thousands of students. It is renowned for its commitment to providing a world-class education and fostering an environment of innovation, research, and critical thinking. By establishing a presence here in Pafos, in Cyprus, AUB continues its tradition of shaping leaders, advancing scholarship, and promoting a culture of research and academic excellence.

Today, we inaugurate more than just university buildings. We inaugurate a sacred space where knowledge will be cultivated, where ideas will be born and challenged, and where the leaders of tomorrow will be nurtured. These state-of-the-art facilities are more than structures; they are spaces where dreams will be pursued, where innovations will be sparked, and where students from diverse backgrounds will come together to learn, cooperate, collaborate, coexist and grow. They represent the tangible expression of a vision, a vision that sees Cyprus as a bridge between cultures, a hub of academic rigour, and a place where the power of education can truly transform lives.

Education is the cornerstone of progress. It is the platform from where we can build a better future. The establishment of the American University of Beirut–Mediterraneo in Pafos is a significant step forward in our collective pursuit of excellence in education. It will empower our students to explore, question, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding.

I would like tonight to express the support of our administration in your new vision for Cyprus. Our administration continues to enhance a successful strategy that was initiated by Anastasiades’ administration and we are very glad to see our country develop into a regional European educational hub. I am very glad that a number of universities from Greece, from Germany, from the greater Middle East are following your example. We are in consultations with them since they expressed interest to establish a campus in our country.

To the students who are beginning this fascinating new chapter in their lives and their academic journey: you are the leaders and pioneers of this new chapter. The world is your oyster. Your presence signifies not only a quest for knowledge but also a mission to question preconceptions, delve into uncharted territories of thought, and develop abilities and principles that will form the future. I urge you to seize this moment with curiosity, enthusiasm, and resilience. Remember, you are not merely students; you are the visionaries and change-makers of tomorrow.

To the faculty and staff: you are the backbone of this university. Your dedication to teaching, research, and service is what makes AUB–Mediterraneo a place of inspiration and transformation. As you guide the students in their academic pursuits, you also play a vital role in advancing the mission of this University, offering knowledge that serves humanity, and forming a community that respects diversity, promotes inclusivity and upholds the values of integrity, respect, and compassion.

As I have mentioned, the opening of these new buildings and facilities also symbolises the strong partnerships between Cyprus and Lebanon, with the support of the USA, and between our people who have long shared ties of friendship, culture, and commerce. The establishment of AUB–Mediterraneo in Cyprus is a testament to our shared dedication to fostering a brighter future for our countries and for our region through education and collaboration.

In closing, I invite everyone to embrace today’s commemoration as a symbol of our collective dedication to education, collaboration, and the quest for knowledge. Let us celebrate together the inauguration of this impressive new campus and the beginning of a promising academic year ahead.

May the American University of Beirut-Mediterraneo here in Pafos be a beacon of enlightenment, hope, and inspiration, nurturing a better future for generations to come.

Congratulations to all who contributed to the realisation of this endeavour.

Thank you, and I wish you all a successful and inspiring academic year ahead.

Let the pursuit of knowledge take its course.

(RM/NGian/GS)